Why Can’t You Have Both?
The intersectionality of spirituality and mental health highlights the complex interplay, and at times conflict, of these two aspects of the human condition.
Spirituality is rooted in personal beliefs and practices and can provide comfort, hope, and a sense of purpose when dealing with mental health issues. It can offer coping mechanisms, a source of strength, and a means of finding meaning in difficult times.
However, the relationship is intricate, as spiritual beliefs can both alleviate and exacerbate mental health concerns. Factors such as cultural background, societal norms, and personal interpretations can shape how spirituality influences mental well-being. Recognizing and navigating this intersection calls for a holistic approach that respects individuals' diverse spiritual perspectives while also considering evidence-based mental health interventions to ensure comprehensive care.
Mask Off
I bet you thought this would be about the debate to continue to mask or not due to Covid-19. No, this is about a different set of masks we each wear, the masks of identity. On social media this week, especially the blue bird app, there was A LOT of contention about a dress, who was wearing it, and the assertion by the initial poster that she shouldn’t have because she’s a mother now.
Let’s Be Real For A Minute
Despite public figures like Simone Biles, Meg Thee Stallion, and Naomi Osaka openly speaking about their mental health journeys and copious resources on how to talk about mental health, there is still a significant stigma attached to mental and behavioral health issues.
In a May 2023 article in the LA Times, there was an outline of a step-by-step process on how to talk to your manager about your mental health struggles. The article also noted, very prominently, that you should only do so if it is absolutely necessary; such as if you need an ADA accommodation or if it is directly impacting the quality of your performance/work.
More Than A Number
On June 14th, 2023, the American Medical Association (AMA) publicly adopted a new policy stating that using Body Mass Index (BMI) alone is an imperfect measure of overall health. Something many have been touting for years. BMI is a simplistic measurement that uses weight and height to categorize individuals into broad ranges. This oversimplification can lead to unrealistic expectations and comparisons, especially in a society that values thinness.
I’m Not Really a Nice Person…
I was out with a friend recently, just walking the mall and talking. We were in a hat store and I’d picked out a hat for myself and said that I was going to get one for my husband as well. My friend remarked, “That’s nice of you”. I stated, “I’m not really a nice person. I’m kind.” The cashier looked at me and was visually quite disturbed by what I said. Being nice and kind may seem similar on the surface, as they both involve displaying positive behavior towards others. However, there are subtle differences between the two concepts.
Just Stop For A Minute
My six year old nephew is wise beyond his years. About a month and a half ago I was visiting and promised I would play Nintendo Switch with him. We all got caught up talking, time got away from me and I had to leave before playing with him. I asked him to get a piece of paper and a marker and I wrote him out an I.O.U that he expertly negotiated with whispers from his mom. The deal was the very next time I came over he could cash in his I.O.U. for either play time with me or $20 cash.
Give Yourself Some Grace
So many times we base our self-esteem and self-worth on what others think and external validation. Society has conditioned us to seek out others’ opinions on and about us and we layer those on top of our internal monologue of worthiness and societal acceptance. The problem with that at times they begin to suffocate the core thoughts and feelings we have about ourselves and become the dominant voices in our heads.
Not Now Does Not Mean Not Ever
What do you do when you come to the realization that you have arrived at a place in your career where you have no desire to be in management? We’re told via succession planning and the seen potential in us by others, that we are management material. Management is always conveyed as the ultimate goal of any role, to be in charge of and over others.
What Is Behavioral Health Coaching
There are a whole lot of terms floating around out there: life coaching, mental health coaching, behavioral health coaching, etc. It’s enough to pique your interest and befuddle you at the same time. I have an analogy that I like to use when describing Behavioral Health Coaching that seems to encapsulate all of the nuances.